CodeMonkey partners with Sunburst Digital to bring its proven coding curriculum to U.S. classrooms

In President Obama’s “Computer Science for All Initiative” (announced in the 2016 State of the Union) he states we should offer “every student the hands-on computer science and math classes that make them job-ready on day one.”

NEW YORK, NY & HOFFMAN ESTATES, IL -- May 12, 2016 - InPresident Obama’s“Computer Science for All Initiative” (announced in the 2016 State of the Union) he states we should offer “every student the hands-on computer science and math classes that make them job-ready on day one.”

Software programming and critical thinking are the new building blocks for our children to compete within a 21st century global workplace. Teaching coding effectively requires an equal understanding of the technology discipline and sound classroom instruction. Successful programs must be tested and proven in real-world, everyday school environments.

CodeMonkey teaches programming basics in a language known as “CoffeeScript” through game-based learning. CodeMonkey is endorsed by Israel's Ministry of Education and provides instruction to 253,000 students in Israel. Their proven approach emphasizes learning a useful, real programming language through an intuitive and highly engaging online game. The solution includes companion lesson plans, assessments and online professional development, allowing any teacher to make a positive impact in the classroom. Israel, often referred to as “The Startup Nation”, has more scientists and technicians per capita than the U.S. CodeMonkey students go on to work at innovative high-tech companies that Israel's economy relies on to help propel them in this global economy. Now, CodeMonkey is offering that proven methodology with Sunburst Digital for U.S. classrooms.

“CodeMonkey emphasizes learning the syntax associated with coding, similar to how the best language arts programs expand upon a student’s grammar and comprehension to foster great writing,” says Joe DeSario, GM of Sunburst. In the game, users control a monkey to catch bananas by writing lines of code, ensuring all students are learning and engaged at the same time. “The students have really enjoyed CodeMonkey,” says Roger Coy, Director at Three Rivers Charter School. “They treat it like a game, especially the self-created challenges section.”

About Sunburst: Sunburst has connected educators with technology and digital content solutions for three decades. We sell, support, and provide curriculum services directly to schools. Our solutions are found in more than 95% of US school districts. We selectively work with educational development companies launching products by helping schools and partners take risk out of innovation. We believe implementing instructionally sound digital content solutions enhances teaching and raises outcomes.

About CodeMonkey Studios: CodeMonkey Studios was founded in 2014 based on Jonathan Schor’s successful experiences in teaching young children to code through playful activities. CodeMonkey Studios is a team of experts in technology, gaming and pedagogy who together solve the equation of learning to code. Today, CodeMonkey is bringing fun, knowledge and opportunity into the lives of millions of learners around the world.

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Introducing coding and computer science into every classroom is the new American “moonshot”. From President Obama’s 2016 State of the Union address to the new curriculum mandates in San Francisco, Chicago and New York City, educators are placing a high priority on exposing students to these important 21st century skills.